Inclusive Exclusivity

The greatest put-down in today’s postmodern society is to accuse someone of intolerance or exclusivity. Because of this, any person who states that Christianity is the only true religion is accused of bigotry. So how do I respond if someone accuses me of being judgmental, intolerant, and narrow for saying that Jesus Christ is the only way to God?

First of all, it wasn’t my idea. It is Jesus himself who said, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” (John 14:6 ESV). Their main problem, therefore, isn’t with me, it is with Jesus Christ.

Christianity is an exclusive religion. I am not ashamed of this. There is only one way to God, and that is salvation by grace through faith in Christ. But—and this is extremely important—Christianity is at the same time the most inclusive religion on Earth. Before his ascension into heaven, Jesus said, “Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation.” (Mark 16:15 ESV). The gospel of Jesus Christ is good news for every person on Earth: those “from every tribe and language and people and nation.” (Revelation 5:9 ESV). None will be turned away who come to him. Christianity is a religion of inclusive exclusivity.